Red Cross Seeking Donations For Japan’s Earthquake Victims

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BALTIMORE (WJZ) — You can help the earthquake victims in Japan and all you need is a cell phone.

Ron Matz has more on how the American Red Cross is reaching out to those in need.

The images are unforgettable. The people of Japan desperately need help. In Baltimore, the Red Cross is ready.

“It’s horrific. I think everyone has seen the tapes from over there. It’s just horrible what everyone is going through. The American Red Cross is asking people if they would like to help to contribute money that will make the difference. They can call 1-800 Red Cross or go to www.redcross.org,” said Gary Ouellette, American Red Cross.

The recovery in Japan will take years, but help is needed now.

“We did have our Katrina and that was pretty horrific as well, probably one of the worst things we’ve ever seen in our country. But clearly the devastation in Japan is just unbelievable. I think people around the world, their hearts are out to the people in Japan and want to do anything they can to help,” said Ouellette.

In 1994, the Japanese Red Cross helped us after the quake in Northridge, Calif.

“You may remember the ‘World Series’ earthquake. I went out there the second day working for the Red Cross. When I responded, I was taken aback that the Japanese Red Cross was very supportive of us. They sent over staff and collected money to help our effort in San Francisco,” said Frank Miller, Executive Director, American Red Cross Central Maryland. “Most of the time the American Red Cross is responding to other countries. This time the Japanese Red Cross was very supportive of the American Red Cross, so I think it’s only right now that we support their effort with their earthquake.”

Volunteers can help the victims in Japan with their cell phone, by just texting the Red Cross to 90999 to make a $10 donation.

“It really is best, rather than to make in kind donations, to be able to give money and then the money can be used for whatever is needed at that time. Whether it’s food, medicine or shelter, there are a number of things that the money will be used for to meet their immediate needs,” said Ouellette.

For more information on how you can donate to the America Red Cross, click here.